"Things Ain't Like They Used To Be" by UB40 is a song that reflects on the changing times and the disillusionment felt by the younger generation. The lyrics capture the frustration and disconnection between different generations and the sense of societal decline. The song opens with a question, asking why people don't communicate anymore and why the world seems consumed by the call for war. It suggests that the younger generation may be experiencing the same pain and hurt as their predecessors. The chorus of the song addresses the older generation, symbolized by the "grey-faced men," who constantly criticize the younger generation. These older individuals lament the loss of values and respect, blaming the youth for the changes in society. However, the song challenges this perspective, stating that the world has become a dog-eat-dog, self-centered place due to the neglect and failures of the older generation. The lyrics convey a sense of hopelessness and frustration with the current state of affairs. The singer explains their inability to trust the promises and words of the older generation, emphasizing that they must take matters into their own hands. There is a rejection of the existing power structures, represented through the lines "It's in or out, it's stop and go, it isn't what, it's who you know." The song suggests that success and opportunities are determined by connections rather than merit or hard work. The song further criticizes the "ancient rules for ancient men," implying that the traditional ways of thinking and behaving are no longer applicable in the present. The singer refuses to be subdued or controlled by these outdated norms and expresses a desire for freedom and individuality. In the end, "Things Ain't Like They Used To Be" captures the sentiment of a generation that is tired of being misunderstood and oppressed by the previous generation's standards. It highlights the need for change and progress while acknowledging the shared pain and struggle experienced by individuals from different generations.
